‘The Chew’ Host Mario Batali Officially Fired Over Sexual Harassment

ABC has officially severed all ties to Mario Batali, including his role as co-host of The Chew. The move follows an initial suspension stemming from multiple sexual harassment allegations that surfaced earlier this month.

Batali previously put out a statement acknowledging the four women who accused the restaurateur of inappropriate touching over a period of two decades, saying “much of the behavior described does, in fact, match up with ways I have acted.” ABC initially asked Batali to leave The Chew while they investigate the claims, but now appears to have severed ties regardless (via Variety):

Upon completing its review into the allegations made against Mario Batali, ABC has terminated its relationship with him and he will no longer appear on ‘The Chew.’ While we remain unaware of any type of inappropriate behavior involving him and anyone affiliated with our show, ABC takes matters like this very seriously as we are committed to a safe work environment and his past behavior violates our standards of conduct.

As the article notes, Batali’s exit leaves Carla Hall, Clinton Kelly, and Michael Symon as hosts, following Daphne Oz’s departure earlier this year. It is as-yet-unclear if The Chew will find a new host to replace Batali, or if Batali will return to his restaurant management company, Batali and Bastianich Hospitality Group. Stay tuned for the latest in the meantime.